Which transmission-based precautions are most appropriate to prevent a disease that spreads by close respiratory contact or secretions?

Which transmission-based precautions are most appropriate to prevent a disease that spreads by close respiratory contact or secretions?

• A. Airborne Precautions
• B. Droplet Precautions
• C. Contact Precautions
• D. Standard Precautions

Answer: (B)

When a disease spreads via close respiratory contact or secretions, the important protection is to block larger respiratory droplets that travel only short distances from the infected person. Droplet Precautions are designed for that route, using measures like a surgical mask to protect the healthcare worker and precautions to prevent droplets from reaching mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth). This typically includes placing the patient in a private room or with others with the same infection, keeping people at a safe distance (about 3 feet or so), and limiting unnecessary patient transport while having the patient wear a mask if they must be moved. Standard precautions are always used for all patients, but for diseases transmitted by droplets, adding Droplet Precautions specifically targets that mode of spread. Airborne precautions are for small particles that stay suspended in the air and require special rooms and respirators, and contact precautions focus on transmission through direct or indirect contact with the patient or environment.

When a disease spreads via close respiratory contact or secretions, the important protection is to block larger respiratory droplets that travel only short distances from the infected person. Droplet Precautions are designed for that route, using measures like a surgical mask to protect the healthcare worker and precautions to prevent droplets from reaching mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth). This typically includes placing the patient in a private room or with others with the same infection, keeping people at a safe distance (about 3 feet or so), and limiting unnecessary patient transport while having the patient wear a mask if they must be moved. Standard precautions are always used for all patients, but for diseases transmitted by droplets, adding Droplet Precautions specifically targets that mode of spread. Airborne precautions are for small particles that stay suspended in the air and require special rooms and respirators, and contact precautions focus on transmission through direct or indirect contact with the patient or environment.